Convicted felon allegedly found to be in possession of two firearms & drugs

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Harold Moody, 47, of Providence, was ordered detained on Wednesday by U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Lincoln D. Almond on federal firearm and drug charges. Moody was arrested by agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Providence Police on Tuesday, charged by way of a federal criminal complaint with felon in possession of a firearm, making false statements in connection with acquisition of a firearm, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and possession with the intent to distribute marijuana.
Moody’s arrest was announced by United States Attorney Peter F. Neronha; Guy N. Thomas, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Boston Field Office; and Providence Public Safety Commissioner Steven M. Pare.
According to an affidavit in support of a criminal complaint and arrest warrant filed with the U.S. District Court, Moody allegedly failed to disclose his past felony convictions on ATF forms he signed and submitted in April 2012 to a licensed firearms dealer in an effort to take ownership of a Glock .45 caliber pistol. Moody allegedly attempted to have ownership of the firearm transferred to him by an acquaintance. The firearms dealer refused transfer of ownership to Moody.

In addition, according to the affidavit, a court authorized search of Moody’s residence on July 31, 2012, resulted in the discovery and seizure of two Glock .45 caliber pistols, six bags containing approximately a quarter ounce of marijuana in each, and various items used in the distribution of marijuana. According to the affidavit, Moody allegedly admitted to an ATF agent that he requested that his wife purchase the firearms from a licensed firearms dealer in June 2012 for protection of their residence. According to the affidavit, Moody allegedly assisted his wife in making the purchases.

A criminal complaintis merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Milind M. Shah.